Best Places To Stay In Africa For Safari

Africa, the second largest continent in the world, is home to some of the most diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. A safari in Africa is an experience that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. However, choosing the right place to stay during your safari can make or break your trip. In this article, we will explore the best places to stay in Africa for a safari, highlighting the unique features and accommodations of each location.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Safari Accommodation

Choosing the right safari accommodation is crucial for several reasons. First, it can determine the quality of your wildlife viewing experiences. Some lodges and camps are located in prime wildlife areas, providing guests with up-close and personal encounters with animals. Others may be situated in less ideal locations, resulting in fewer sightings.

Second, the accommodation you choose can impact your comfort and overall enjoyment of the safari. High-end lodges and camps offer luxurious amenities such as private plunge pools, gourmet meals, and spa treatments. More budget-friendly options may provide basic accommodations, but still offer unique and unforgettable experiences.

The Best Places to Stay in Africa for a Safari

1. Singita Grumeti Reserves, Tanzania

Singita Grumeti Reserves, located in the Serengeti ecosystem, is a collection of five luxury lodges and camps. Each property offers stunning views of the surrounding wilderness, and guests can enjoy game drives, walking safaris, and hot air balloon rides. The reserves are also home to the largest population of elephants in the region, making it an ideal destination for elephant lovers.

2. andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, Tanzania

andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge is a luxury safari lodge located on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater. The lodge offers stunning views of the crater floor, which is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including the endangered black rhino. Guests can enjoy game drives, guided walks, and cultural experiences with the local Maasai tribe.

3. Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve, South Africa

Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve is located in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve, which shares an unfenced border with the Kruger National Park. The reserve is home to the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo), as well as a variety of other wildlife. Sabi Sabi offers four luxury lodges, each with its own unique style and amenities.

4. Ol Donyo Lodge, Kenya

Ol Donyo Lodge is a luxury safari lodge located in the Chyulu Hills of Kenya. The lodge offers stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, and guests can enjoy game drives, horseback safaris, and guided walks. Ol Donyo Lodge is also committed to conservation and community development, providing guests with the opportunity to contribute to sustainable tourism.

5. Wilderness Safaris Mombo Camp, Botswana

Wilderness Safaris Mombo Camp is located in the Okavango Delta of Botswana. The camp is situated on a private concession, providing guests with exclusive access to some of the best wildlife viewing in the region. Mombo Camp offers luxurious tented accommodations, as well as game drives, walking safaris, and birdwatching.

Conclusion

Choosing the right place to stay in Africa for a safari is an important decision that can impact the quality of your experience. By considering factors such as location, amenities, and conservation efforts, you can find the perfect accommodation for your needs and budget. The five properties highlighted in this article offer unique and unforgettable safari experiences, making them some of the best places to stay in Africa for a safari. (See Also: Best Places To Stay During Mardi Gras)

Best Places To Stay In Africa For Safari

Africa is a vast and diverse continent, home to some of the most incredible wildlife and breathtaking landscapes on Earth. A safari is an unforgettable experience, and choosing the right place to stay can make all the difference. Here are some of the best places to stay in Africa for a safari adventure.

1. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Serengeti National Park is one of the most famous safari destinations in the world, and for good reason. The park is home to an incredible array of wildlife, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, and wildebeest. The best time to visit is between June and October, when the great migration takes place and millions of animals move across the plains in search of water.

There are many options for accommodation in Serengeti National Park, from luxury lodges to tented camps. Some of the best include:

• Singita Sasakwa Lodge: This luxurious lodge offers stunning views of the plains and is located in a private concession, ensuring a more exclusive safari experience.
• Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti: This high-end resort offers spacious rooms, a spa, and several restaurants, making it a great option for those who want a bit of luxury on their safari.
• Serengeti Under Canvas: This tented camp offers an authentic safari experience, with comfortable tents and excellent guides. The camp moves with the migration, ensuring guests are always in the best location to see the wildlife.

2. Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Masai Mara National Reserve is another iconic safari destination, known for its large populations of lions, leopards, and cheetahs. The reserve is also home to the annual wildebeest migration, which is one of the most spectacular natural events on the planet.

Accommodation options in Masai Mara National Reserve include:

• Mara Plains Camp: This high-end tented camp offers an intimate safari experience, with just seven tents. The camp is located in a private concession, ensuring a more exclusive experience.
• Mara Bushtops: This luxury tented camp offers spacious tents, a spa, and a range of activities, including hot air balloon rides and guided walks.
• Governors’ Il Moran Camp: This tented camp is located in a prime location in the reserve and offers excellent guiding and game viewing. The camp has just ten tents, ensuring a more personalized experience.

3. Kruger National Park, South Africa

Kruger National Park is one of the largest and most famous wildlife reserves in Africa, home to an incredible array of animals, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo). The park is easily accessible and offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury lodges to camping.

Some of the best places to stay in Kruger National Park include: (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Savanah)

• Singita Lebombo Lodge: This luxurious lodge offers stunning views of the park and is located in a private concession. The lodge has just 15 suites, ensuring a more intimate experience.
• Lion Sands River Lodge: This high-end lodge is located on the banks of the Sabie River and offers spacious rooms, a spa, and several restaurants.
• Skukuza Rest Camp: This is a more affordable option, offering basic accommodation in the heart of the park. The camp has a range of facilities, including a shop, restaurant, and swimming pool.

4. Okavango Delta, Botswana

The Okavango Delta is a unique and incredible destination, with vast wetlands and an incredible array of wildlife, including elephants, hippos, and crocodiles. The best way to experience the delta is by boat or mokoro (a traditional dugout canoe), and there are many options for accommodation, from luxury lodges to tented camps.

Some of the best places to stay in the Okavango Delta include:

• Belmond Eagle Island Lodge: This luxurious lodge is located on a private island in the delta and offers spacious rooms, a spa, and several restaurants. The lodge offers a range of activities, including boat safaris and guided walks.
• Xudum Okavango Delta Lodge: This tented camp is located in a private concession and offers an authentic safari experience. The camp has just nine tents, ensuring a more personalized experience.
• Duba Plains Camp: This high-end camp is located in a private concession and offers an exclusive safari experience. The camp has just six tents, ensuring a more intimate experience.

5. Gorilla Trekking, Rwanda and Uganda

Gorilla trekking is an unforgettable experience, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with these incredible animals. Both Rwanda and Uganda offer gorilla trekking experiences, and there are several options for accommodation.

Some of the best places to stay for gorilla trekking include:

• Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge: This luxurious lodge is located near the Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and offers spacious rooms, a spa, and several restaurants. The lodge is a great base for gorilla trekking and offers a range of other activities, including guided walks and cultural experiences.
• Bwindi Lodge: This high-end lodge is located in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda and offers spacious rooms, a spa, and several restaurants. The lodge is a great base for gorilla trekking and offers a range of other activities, including guided walks and birdwatching.
• Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge: This luxurious lodge is located in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda and offers stunning views of the park. The lodge is a great base for gorilla trekking and offers a range of other activities, including guided walks and community visits.

Recap

Africa is a incredible continent, offering some of the most unforgettable safari experiences on Earth. From the Serengeti to the Okavango Delta, there are many options for accommodation, from luxury lodges to tented camps. When choosing a place to stay, consider the type of experience you want, the location, and the facilities on offer. With the right accommodation, your safari adventure is sure to be unforgettable.

Some of the best places to stay in Africa for a safari include:

• Serengeti National Park, Tanzania: Singita Sasakwa Lodge, Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, and Serengeti Under Canvas
• Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya: Mara Plains Camp, Mara Bushtops, and Governors’ Il Moran Camp
• Kruger National Park, South Africa: Singita Lebombo Lodge, Lion Sands River Lodge, and Skukuza Rest Camp
• Okavango Delta, Botswana: Belmond Eagle Island Lodge, Xudum Okavango Delta Lodge, and Duba Plains Camp
• Gorilla Trekking, Rwanda and Uganda: Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Bwindi Lodge, and Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge

Each of these options offers a unique and incredible safari experience, with excellent accommodation, guiding, and game viewing. Choose the right option for you and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Africa.

Frequently Asked Questions: Best Places to Stay in Africa for Safari

Where is the best place for a first-time safari experience in Africa?

The Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya is one of the best places for a first-time safari experience. It is home to the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo) and offers excellent year-round game viewing. Additionally, the reserve is known for the great wildebeest migration, which takes place from July to October. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Lake District For Families)

What are some luxury safari lodges in Africa?

Some of the most luxurious safari lodges in Africa include Singita Grumeti Reserves in Tanzania, and &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve in South Africa. These lodges offer world-class amenities, personalized service, and exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities. Other notable luxury lodges include the Saruni Samburu and Sasaab in Kenya, and the Royal Malewane and Singita Lebombo in South Africa.

What is the best time of year to go on a safari in Africa?

The best time to go on a safari in Africa depends on the specific destination. Generally, the dry season (May to October) is considered the best time for game viewing as the animals congregate around water sources. However, the wet season (November to April) can also offer excellent opportunities for birdwatching and viewing newborn animals.

What should I pack for a safari in Africa?

When packing for a safari in Africa, it is important to bring lightweight, neutral-colored clothing that can be layered. Other essential items include a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, and a good pair of binoculars. It is also recommended to bring a camera with a long lens, a small daypack, and a flashlight or headlamp.

Is it safe to go on a safari in Africa?

Safaris in Africa are generally safe, as long as visitors follow the guidelines and instructions of their guide. It is important to stay inside the vehicle at all times, except in designated areas, and to avoid feeding or touching the animals. Visitors should also take precautions against malaria and other tropical diseases, and should consult with their doctor before traveling to Africa.